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HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

Public Health, Policy & Planning

San Mateo County Health provides essential information and resources on HIV prevention with PrEP and PEP, including educational materials and links to local and state services to help you access care and reduce HIV risk.

HIV PrEP

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) can reduce your chance of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV.

HIV PEP

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) means taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP should be used only in emergency situations and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV.